2017 Audi TT RS mule caught on the Ring testing hard [video]

A test mule of the 2017 Audi TT RS has been spotted performing hard testing on the Nürburgring.

At a first glance this might look like a normal black TTS Coupe, but in reality hiding underneath the familiar skin is actually the range-topping RS version set to come out in the second half of next year as a 2017MY. If you look closely, it sits lower and has a different exhaust system that we normally see only on test mules while the soundtrack clearly comes from Audi‘s well-known 5-cylinder, 2.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine.

According to the latest gossip from Ingolstadt, the motor will develop somewhere in the region of 407 PS (300 kW) and will work exclusively with a dual-clutch seven-speed gearbox as Audi has decided to axe the six-speed manual transmission.

In terms of performance, expect the TT RS to conquer the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in as little as 4 seconds before reaching a top speed estimated to stand at 174 mph (280 km/h).

Taking into account the TTS Coupe stars at €49,100 in Germany, chances are the RS derivative will cost approximately €60,000. Later during the model’s life cycle, an RS Plus version is likely to join the range with even more power and a higher price tag.